Beyond 'Definitional Anarchy': A Latent Class Analysis of Institutional Definitions of Community Engagement

The Carnegie Foundation’s Elective Classification for Community Engagement was first awarded in 2006. As of the 2024 cycle, 368 institutions held the classification. At the time of this research, the American Council on Education (ACE) hosted the Carnegie Elective Classifications. We used latent class analysis to create a typology of four definitions with varying levels of emphasis placed on values like collaboration, mutual benefit and connections to scholarship. The resultant typology offers a framework for understanding how institutions communicate their values related to community engagement. Our findings provide opportunities for practical guidance and reflective opportunities for leaders seeking to institutionalise community engagement.